After Neuschwanstein, my other request was to visit a Christkindlmarkt, a German Christmas market. Mac visited several on his many trips to Germany, and he was excited for us to go back. Because we went to Germany so close to Christmas, we wound up visiting markets in Munich (Marienplatz) and in Nuremberg (Hauptmarkt). Most of the major German cities have Christmas markets that last for several weeks. The smaller towns may have Christmas markets that only go for a week or two or even last one weekend. I would definitely recommend researching the market options for where you plan to go in Germany.
Try Gluhwein (or the Kinderpunsch)
Gluhwein is a spiced, mulled wine that is served hot. Most stalls sell both red and white versions, and they frequently offer Kinderpunsch, an alcohol-free punch. We also found some stalls that sold hot chocolate and punch made with rum. If you drink alcohol, I would recommend trying all of the different flavors (though maybe not in one trip). Each vendor sells their own Gluhwein recipe, so you probably won’t taste the same wine everywhere you go. You will also see a wide variety of mug designs at each market. Keep in mind that you pay for both the Gluhwein and the mug (if it’s not disposable). If you return the mug, you will get the cost of the mug back (most of them were 3 – 5 Euro).
Stock up on Lebkuchen and Stollen
Lebkuchen is German gingerbread. While it shares a name with our gingerbread, it’s a bit more dense and spicy than what most Americans are used to. You can find Lebkuchen in plain cookies, in tins, or with cute icing decorations. Stollen is similar to fruit cake. While it doesn’t sound the most appealing, Stollen is a really traditional German cake and is worth the purchase. Either would make a great gift for any friends and family who love baked goods.
Sample some street food
Germans love their sausage. Bratwurst rolls are pretty popular, and you’ll also find lots of stands selling warm sausage. Grab one before you wander through the market. If you aren’t into sausage, you’ll be able to find plenty of other stalls selling food. The Nuremberg Christmas market also had food stalls set up like a farmer’s market. You can stock up on dried fruit, spices, or even fresh flowers.
Shop til you drop (or until your suitcase is full)
The markets we visited sold tons of cute Christmas decorations and homey touches. If you see something at one market, buy it there. You may not find it at another market. On our first day in Garmisch, we walked through their Christmas market. I saw some hand-cut wood ornaments, and I didn’t buy them because I assumed a larger market would also have them. And then I didn’t see anything like them. Also, bring cash. It’s easier and faster to pay, and it can give you the chance if you want to haggle over prices.
Visit at night
I would recommend hitting the Christmas markets during the day for any shopping. The crowds may not be as bad because the locals are at work, and you’ll be able to see the goods for sale better. But Christmas markets are positively magical at night. The sun sets pretty early in that area of Europe, so it should be dark by 5 pm. The stalls turn on their lights, and the Christmas trees start to glow. Be sure to go back and wander through the market while enjoying the twinkle of Christmas lights and the festivity of the season.
